Chicken tenders are a versatile and easy to prepare meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. Also known as chicken strips or chicken fillets, they are made from the tenderloin part of the chicken breast. When purchased frozen, chicken tenders provide a quick protein option that can be cooked straight from frozen. However, to ensure food safety and the best texture, it is important to know the proper way to cook frozen chicken tenders. This article will provide tips on how long and at what temperature to cook frozen chicken tenders in the oven, air fryer and skillet to achieve perfectly cooked and safe to eat chicken every time.
Thawing vs Cooking Frozen Chicken Tenders
Many people wonder if it is necessary to thaw frozen chicken tenders before cooking or if they can just be cooked straight from frozen. Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of each method:
Thawing Before Cooking
Pros:
- Allows seasoning or marinade to penetrate meat more effectively
- Results in more even cooking
- Prevents outside from overcooking before inside thaws
Cons:
- Takes more time
- Increases risk of bacterial growth if not thawed properly
- Can lead to mushy texture
Cooking Straight from Frozen
Pros:
- More convenient, saves time
- No risk of bacteria since chicken stays frozen until cooked
- Crispier exterior
Cons:
- Seasoning and marinades do not penetrate as well
- Center may be undercooked if not cooked long enough
- Can dry out exterior before inside cooks through
In general, thinner chicken tenders can be safely cooked straight from frozen as long as the proper temperature and cook times are used. For thicker tenders, thawing first is recommended.
Oven Cook Times and Temperatures
The oven is a popular way to cook frozen chicken tenders. Here are some tips on oven temperature and cook times:
Thawed Chicken Tenders
For thawed chicken tenders, an oven temperature of 400°F to 450°F for 8-12 minutes is recommended depending on thickness. They should register 165°F internally with an instant read thermometer when done.
Frozen Chicken Tenders
Cooking frozen chicken tenders in the oven takes longer. Cook at 425°F, flipping halfway through, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a food thermometer. Approximate cook times:
| Thickness | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 18-22 minutes |
| 3/4 inch | 22-28 minutes |
| 1 inch | 28-35 minutes |
The oven produces evenly cooked chicken tenders with a nice crispy exterior. Just be sure to use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy and adjust cook times as needed.
Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tender Times and Temps
Air fryers are a fast and healthy way to cook frozen chicken tenders with little to no oil. Here are air fryer recommendations:
Thawed Chicken Tenders
Cook thawed chicken tenders at 390°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway. Brush with a little oil to make the exterior crispy.
Frozen Chicken Tenders
When cooking directly from frozen in an air fryer, use a higher temperature of 400°F to help the outside crisp up faster before the inside overcooks. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. Cook times:
| Thickness | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 10-14 minutes |
| 3/4 inch | 14-18 minutes |
| 1 inch | 18-22 minutes |
The air fryer makes frozen chicken tenders come out tender and juicy inside with a crisp exterior. Adjust times as needed to reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Skillet Cook Times for Frozen Chicken Tenders
Pan-frying chicken tenders is a quick and easy stovetop method. Use these guidelines when cooking in a skillet:
Thawed Chicken Tenders
For thawed chicken, heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and 165°F internally.
Frozen Chicken Tenders
When pan-frying frozen chicken tenders, use medium heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside thaws. Cook times:
| Thickness | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 6-8 minutes per side |
| 3/4 inch | 8-10 minutes per side |
| 1 inch | 10-12 minutes per side |
The skillet method provides a quick, hands-on way to cook frozen chicken tenders to a golden brown finish.
Internal Temperature for Safe Chicken
Regardless of the cooking method, frozen chicken tenders must reach an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a food thermometer before removing from the heat source. This ensures any bacteria that may have accumulated during processing or freezing are killed.
Undercooked chicken can potentially lead to foodborne illness. Allow the tenders to rest for 5 minutes after cooking then double check the temperature again before serving. The temperature should remain at 165°F or higher.
Tips for Cooking Frozen Chicken Tenders
Follow these tips for the best results when cooking frozen chicken tenders:
- Completely freeze fresh chicken tenders if not using right away for maximum freshness and food safety.
- Portion chicken tenders into freezer bags or airtight containers for easy grab-and-go convenience.
- Remove desired number of tenders from freezer and return remaining to freezer right away.
- Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet or air fryer basket; overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
- Use a digital food thermometer to accurately monitor internal temperature.
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before biting into to allow juices to redistribute.
- Store leftovers in refrigerator and use within 3-4 days.
Common Ways to Use Cooked Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are extremely versatile. Here are some popular ways to use cooked frozen chicken tenders:
- Salads – Dice and add to fresh green, pasta or grain salads.
- Wraps – Slice or dice chicken and stuff into tortillas or flatbread with veggies and cheese.
- Sandwiches – Shred or slice chicken and pile onto bread or rolls; classic chicken sandwich.
- Pizzas – Top pizzas with chopped or sliced chicken before baking.
- Tacos – Dice or shred chicken and fill taco shells or tortillas.
- Casseroles – Mix diced chicken into pasta bakes, pot pies, enchiladas.
- Soups – Shred chicken and add to chicken noodle or other soups.
- Salad Topper – Slice chicken over garden or Caesar salads.
- Snacks – Eat plain, with ranch or other dipping sauce.
Chicken tenders are so convenient because they can be added to just about any recipe for an instant protein boost.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen chicken tenders is easy when you follow the right guidelines. Thinner tenders can be cooked straight from frozen while thicker pieces benefit from thawing first. Oven baking, air frying, and pan-frying on the stovetop are all great options. Just be sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a food thermometer before serving. Adjust cook times as needed to prevent over or undercooking. Frozen chicken tenders are perfect for quick weeknight meals, dinner sides, meal prepping, and even simple snacks. Follow proper food safety practices and use the cooking times provided here for delicious safely cooked chicken tenders every time.